Ronald was born to Vernon and Julie (Larson) Gunderson on May 3, 1946 in Detroit Lakes, where he was raised and educated. As a young adult, he started with the Job Corps and worked in forestry. A short time later, in 1967, he enlisted in the United States Navy, and received an honorable discharge in 1970. Ronald returned to Detroit Lakes and worked at Swift Hatchery and Fred Mears Auto.

In 1974 Ronald met Sherry Beckman; they moved to California, where they managed apartments and hotels. They were married on April 15, 1975 in Gardena, Calif. In 1976, they moved to Thief River, Minn., where Ronald worked for Big John's Muffler. Later, they moved to Roseau, where Ronald also worked at Big John's Muffler. Ronald then began working for Ballard Motors in 1989, and retired in 2003 due to his health.

Ronald enjoyed fishing, hunting and bowling.

Surviving Ronald are his wife, Sherry Gunderson of Roseau; son, Scott Gunderson of Stillwater, Minn.; two sisters, Bonnie (Terry) Sorlien of Frazee and Mary (Robert) Simon of Detroit Lakes; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him death were his father, Vernon Gunderson and mother, Julie Hagerty, as well as both sets of grandparents.

Services are scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22 at West-Kjos Funeral Home, Detroit Lakes, with the Rev. Marcella Crouch officiating; there will be visitation for one hour prior to the start of services.

West-Kjos Funeral Home is providing arrangements for the family. Those wanting to share memories and condolences are invited to use the funeral home's online messages of sympathy section at www.westkjos.com.